Whilst Christmas might still be a few weeks away, it’s never too early to get ready for gift-giving! The tradition of gifting Christmas presents originates from the Biblical story of the Magi, or the Three Wise Men, being led to Bethlehem to offer their gifts to the newborn Jesus in the manger. Over time, this practice has evolved into a traditional way of conveying blessings to friends, colleagues, family, and loved ones.


In this universal season of love and joy, let us explore some unexpected Christmas gift-giving traditions from around the world. We hope they will inspire your Christmas shopping at Lee Gardens!

Iceland – A Roulette of Candies, Books, or Bad Potatoes

According to Icelandic folklore, Iceland is home to thirteen Yule Lads. In the thirteen days leading up to Christmas, Icelandic children place shoes on their bedroom windowsills with the wish of receiving gifts from one of the thirteen "Santa Clauses." It is said that well-behaved children will receive candies or chocolates in their shoes, while mischievous ones may find a rotten potato. To reward children for their good behaviour this Christmas, visit Feather & Bone at Lee Gardens Two to shop for a variety of speciality chocolates and snacks!

However, when it comes to the most cherished Christmas gifts in Iceland, books unequivocally trump all the sweets and treats. Tracing back to 1931, when Iceland imposed strict controls on imported goods, alongside unideal economic conditions, options for Christmas gifts were minimal. Books, which fell outside the scope of import control, became one of the most accessible and popular gifts. Eventually, gifting books during Christmas has become a staple of Icelandic tradition. Want to spend this Christmas immersing yourself in the world of books like The Icelanders? Head to eslite Bookstore at Hysan Place and pick your favourites as Christmas presents!

Canada and Japan – Tangerines as Christmas Gifts

Did you expect the tradition of gifting tangerines during Christmas to originate from Canada? It is said that Canadians started this tradition by importing tangerines from Japan as gifts to their loved ones, since these citrus fruits do not naturally grow during the cold winter months in Canada. In turn, this practice inspired the farmers from the Ehime Prefecture, Japan's largest producers of tangerines, to spread this practice domestically throughout the country, where tangerines gradually became one of the most popular Christmas gifts. Fusion at Leighton Centre offers a wide range of citrus fruits worldwide, making it the perfect place to purchase them in bulk. Additionally, stop by Sake Moment in Lee Gardens Two to buy a bottle or two of tangerine wine or juice, a great alternative to traditional tangerines.

In addition to shopping for popular Christmas gifts, such as beauty and skincare products, toys and household items, and advent calendars, how can we forget about the sumptuous festive feast? On the hy! online platform, shop for the surprise-filled hy! Moment of Joy Advent Calendar (Digital), as well as the Christmas party packages from BRICK LANE and N.O.T. x NUTMAD, featuring turkey, fine wine, and speciality snacks! Savour finger-licking deliciousness and discover delightful surprises with family and friends this Christmas!

When shopping on the hy! online platform, members can additionally enjoy the following Christmas rewards: enjoy a $100 discount upon spending $500 by entering the promo code "XMAS100"; enjoy free delivery upon spending $1,000; purchase exclusive advent calendars at discounts as low as 70% off; receive 24 gifts from Lee Gardens all at once in the in-app wallet (Total Value: $8,000+).